EP1986927A2 - Improved label processor and method relating thereto - Google Patents

Improved label processor and method relating thereto

Info

Publication number
EP1986927A2
EP1986927A2 EP07763260A EP07763260A EP1986927A2 EP 1986927 A2 EP1986927 A2 EP 1986927A2 EP 07763260 A EP07763260 A EP 07763260A EP 07763260 A EP07763260 A EP 07763260A EP 1986927 A2 EP1986927 A2 EP 1986927A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
container
information
label
biological sample
printing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP07763260A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1986927A4 (en
EP1986927B1 (en
Inventor
Robert S. Golabek, Jr.
Dimitrios Manoussakis
Kirk D. Swenson
Yuguang Wu
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Becton Dickinson and Co
Original Assignee
Becton Dickinson and Co
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Becton Dickinson and Co filed Critical Becton Dickinson and Co
Publication of EP1986927A2 publication Critical patent/EP1986927A2/en
Publication of EP1986927A4 publication Critical patent/EP1986927A4/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1986927B1 publication Critical patent/EP1986927B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
    • B65C3/00—Labelling other than flat surfaces
    • B65C3/06—Affixing labels to short rigid containers
    • B65C3/08—Affixing labels to short rigid containers to container bodies
    • B65C3/10—Affixing labels to short rigid containers to container bodies the container being positioned for labelling with its centre-line horizontal
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
    • B01L3/508—Rigid containers without fluid transport within
    • B01L3/5082—Test tubes per se
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
    • B01L3/508—Rigid containers without fluid transport within
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
    • B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
    • B01L3/508—Rigid containers without fluid transport within
    • B01L3/5082—Test tubes per se
    • B01L3/50825—Closing or opening means, corks, bungs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65C—LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES
    • B65C9/00—Details of labelling machines or apparatus
    • B65C9/46—Applying date marks, code marks, or the like, to the label during labelling
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F3/00—Labels, tag tickets, or similar identification or indication means; Seals; Postage or like stamps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/02—Identification, exchange or storage of information
    • B01L2300/021—Identification, e.g. bar codes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/02—Identification, exchange or storage of information
    • B01L2300/024—Storing results with means integrated into the container
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/04—Closures and closing means
    • B01L2300/046—Function or devices integrated in the closure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
    • B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
    • B01L2300/06—Auxiliary integrated devices, integrated components
    • B01L2300/0627—Sensor or part of a sensor is integrated
    • B01L2300/0663—Whole sensors
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N35/00—Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups G01N1/00 - G01N33/00; Handling materials therefor
    • G01N35/00584—Control arrangements for automatic analysers
    • G01N35/00722—Communications; Identification
    • G01N35/00732—Identification of carriers, materials or components in automatic analysers
    • G01N2035/00861—Identification of carriers, materials or components in automatic analysers printing and sticking of identifiers
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N31/00—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
    • G01N31/22—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
    • G01N31/229—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators for investigating time/temperature history
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F3/00—Labels, tag tickets, or similar identification or indication means; Seals; Postage or like stamps
    • G09F3/02—Forms or constructions
    • G09F2003/0208—Indicia
    • G09F2003/0211—Transfer or thermo-sensitive
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
    • G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
    • G09F3/00—Labels, tag tickets, or similar identification or indication means; Seals; Postage or like stamps
    • G09F3/02—Forms or constructions
    • G09F2003/0272—Labels for containers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to labeling for laboratory related products, including but not limited to, biological sample collection containers and other biological sample collection vessels.
  • Labeling specimen container devices are well-known in the art for careful placement and alignment of a primary label onto a container for automated manufacturing. Additionally, some labeling machines are capable of affixing onto a container a label that is specific to a patient, specific to a type of tube, or combinations of both. Examples of known label affixation techniques include those described in the following documents including EP 510615A1 to Neeley; JP 3041365A2; JP 5097133A; US Pat. 3,553,041 to Von Hofe; US Pat. 3,653,176 to Gess; US Pat. 3,843,440 to Davies; US Pat. 3,898,433 to Sallet; US Pat. 3,985,605 tomaschineer et al.; US Pat.
  • the present invention relates to an improved technique for providing information onto or into a container prior to or after the container is used as a biological specimen collection device.
  • a system and method are provided for providing information on at least one container for storing a biological sample including a holder configured to hold at least one biological sample container and a receiver configured to receive information relating to at least one of the container or the biological sample, as well as data relating to at least one instruction for printing the information.
  • the system and method further include a printer configured to print the information in accordance with the at least one instruction.
  • the printer is configured to print the information directly on the container.
  • the system and method further include an applicator configured to apply a label on the container and the printer is configured to print the information on the label.
  • the system and method include a printer to first print the information on a label and then with an applicator, apply the label on the container.
  • the positioning of the printed label is influenced by the interpretation of information specific to the container.
  • the system and method include a detector configured to detect whether the container contains the biological sample and a processor configured to determine the manner for printing the information. In this embodiment, the determination is based, at least in part, on whether the container contains the biological sample.
  • the system and method include a processor configured to determine the manner for printing the information.
  • the instruction relates to, at least in part, whether the container contains the biological sample and the determination is based, at least in part, on whether container contains the biological sample.
  • the system and method include a processor configured to determine information specific to a patient, determine the type of container to be labeled, position a label onto the container based on the determination of container type, and print information related to the patient on the label, wherein the printing of information related to the patient can occur before or after the positioning of the label onto the container.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a labeling processing machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
  • FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c illustrate side views of a container that is labeled by the machine illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 5 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a label roll in accordance with embodiments of the present invention
  • FIG. 5a illustrates a perspective view of a labeling processing machine in accordance with an embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 5b illustrates an additional perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in
  • FIG. 5a
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram depicting a process for labeling a container in accordance with an aspect of the present invention
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a diagram depicting a process for labeling a container in accordance with another aspect of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 shows a diagram depicting a process for labeling a container in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention.
  • An evacuated container (or test tube) 10 is fed into a label processing machine 20, which operates to apply, or optionally scan/read and then apply" a label onto the container in the laboratory setting.
  • the processing machine 20 facilitates labeling of containers 10, which have been used or will be used in the process of collecting blood or specimens from a patient and eventually transferred to a diagnostic system (not shown), such as an analyzer, for subsequent analysis.
  • the label processing machine 20 generally comprises a hopper 22 , a holder for holding a roll of labels 29 comprising roll paper 31 with removably attached thereto a plurality of labels 30, a printer (not shown) within a machine 20 for printing (i.e., onto a label 30, a container 10, or both), optionally a scanner for scanning indicia (i.e., on the label 30, container 10, or patient ID 3 health practitioner ID, etc.), and alignment elements to facilitate alignment of labels 30 applied to the container 10.
  • a controller and/or processor are incorporated to directly or indirectly instruct portions of the label-processing machine 20 to enable appropriate printing, scanning, and label application to objects fed into the hopper 22.
  • the containers 10 can be placed into the hopper 22 and indexed by a controller that enables selective positioning of the container 10 into an appropriate position to be labeled by the label-processing machine 22.
  • the hopper 22 of the label processing machine 20 accepts collection containers 10 of either similar or various diameter and length product variations.
  • the hopper may be designed to accept only one collection container at a time such as that shown in FIG. 5a and 5b.
  • hopper 22a of machine 20a in FIG. 5a and 5b receives one tube at a time, wherein insertion of the container 10 into the hopper 22a by motion along for instance path 33 enables either one or both of determining information about the container or a patient, and printing information related to the container or patient on the collection container 10.
  • the hopper 22 may accept a plurality of containers 10 stacked such that one container 10 at a time enters into a labeling, scanning, or printing zone within the label processing machine 20.
  • the label-processing machine 20 may read or scan through the sidewall of the transparent glass or plastic container 10 and determine if the container 10 has been filled with a sample or fluid specimen, and thereby incorporate that information into a decision of whether or not to label the container 10, or optionally determine how to label the container 10.
  • the machine 20 may read or scan the container 10 to see whether indicia is associated with the container 10 such that the machine can identify information about the container 10 that may facilitate what information is to be printed onto the container 10, either directly onto a label pre-applied to the container 10, directly onto the container 10 itself, or optionally indirectly by printing onto a label 30 that is applied to the container 10 by the label processing machine 20.
  • the label processing machine 20 interprets for a remote source information that influences or informs the label processing machine 20 on how and to what information should be printed.
  • a remote source can be a laboratory information system that may communicate directly o ⁇ indirectly with the label processing machine 20 to inform what should be printed onto the container 10.
  • scanning of the container 10 to compare information about the container 10 with that from a remote source i.e., an LIS system or user input module
  • scanning and/or comparing information is not required.
  • the label is positioned purposefully in a position with respect to a label 30 already applied to a container 10. It should be noted that it may be desirable to label a container 10 already labeled such that the second label is an over-label applied by the machine 20 to the container 10. Additionally, it may be desirable to radially align a portion of the label 30 to either a radial datum on the container 10, or optionally, a readable portion of a first label (under-label). Additionally, the label processing machine 20 may comprise a scanner that reads information about the container 10 or any label 20 attached thereto wherein the scanner moves or rotates relative to the container 10, such that the container 10, scanner, or both may be fixed or rotated to achieve such relative movement.
  • a label 30 may be applied in a variety of manners.
  • an adhesive backed label may be used, wherein the adhesive backed label is pre-applied to a roll 29 which is placed into the machine's label applicator portion.
  • the label applicator portion comprises rollers (not shown) that rotate the label roll 29, the container 10, or both such that individual labels are peeled from the roll 29 and purposefully applied to the container in a desired manner.
  • the output of the machine 20, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, is illustrated by the tube and label shown in FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c.
  • FIG. 3a demonstrates a label applied to container 10 demonstrated in embodiments of the invention.
  • FIG. 3b demonstrates two labels 30a and 30b, one (30a) of which is pre-applied to the container 10 first, and label 30b that is later applied to the container 10 by applying at least a portion of label 30b onto at least a portion of label 30a, thereby producing an overlabel subassembly 30c shown in FIG. 3c.
  • the shape, design, size, and material choice of labels 30a and 30b are chosen such that upon correct and intended positioning of label 30b with respect to label 30a by machine 20 and 20a, portions of label 30a are possible to be seen visually as per design and positioning of label 30a indicia.
  • FIG. 6 the system and method for using the present invention is illustrated.
  • one or multiple tubes or containers 10 (hereinafter also referred to as vessels) are loaded into the hopper 20 (step 410).
  • the label-processing machine 20 receives information that relates to the information that is printed onto the vessels directly or indirectly and the manner for effectuating such printing (step 420).
  • the label processing machine 20 may receive information in a variety of ways, including but not limited to: from keyed user input, by accessing a database of information remote from or integral to the label processor, from a wireless or wired telecommunications connection, from data communicated by scanning scannable information (i.e., barcode RFID, ID, or 2D barcode scanner on the vessel itself or on a patient's wristband, patient chart, or other related scannable apparatus).
  • An algorithm accessible by label processing machine 20 incorporates the received information and prints information onto the container 10 or label 30 pre-applied to the container (step 430).
  • Container 10 is then positioned to exit machine 20 (step 440). [0025] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the label-processing machine 20 operates similar to FIG.
  • the machine 20 first applies label 30 onto the vessel 10 (either onto a label-less vessel or onto a vessel that already has a label applied thereto (3Oa)) (step 530), and subsequently prints specific information onto recently-applied label (30b when 30a is used as in FIGS. 3b and 3c) (step 540).
  • Vessel 10 is then positioned to exit machine 20 (step 550).
  • the label-processing machine 20 operates similar to FIG.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Hematology (AREA)
  • Clinical Laboratory Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Investigating Or Analysing Biological Materials (AREA)
  • Automatic Analysis And Handling Materials Therefor (AREA)
  • Sampling And Sample Adjustment (AREA)
  • Labeling Devices (AREA)
  • Measurement Of The Respiration, Hearing Ability, Form, And Blood Characteristics Of Living Organisms (AREA)
  • Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)

Abstract

A system and method are provided for providing information on at least one container for storing a biological sample, including: a holder configured to hold at least one biological sample container and a receiver configured to receive information relating to at least one of the container or the biological sample as well as data relating to at least one instruction for printing the information. The system and method further include a printer configured to print the information in accordance with the at least one instruction. In one embodiment, the printer is configured to print the information directly on the container. In another embodiment, the system and method further include an applicator configured to apply a label on the container and the printer is configured to print the information on the label. In another embodiment, the system and method include a detector configured to detect whether the container contains the biological sample and a processor configured to determine the manner for printing the information. In this embodiment, the determination is based, at least in part, on whether container contains the biological sample.

Description

IMPROVED LABEL PROCESSOR AND METHOD RELATING THERETO
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to labeling for laboratory related products, including but not limited to, biological sample collection containers and other biological sample collection vessels.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Labeling specimen container devices are well-known in the art for careful placement and alignment of a primary label onto a container for automated manufacturing. Additionally, some labeling machines are capable of affixing onto a container a label that is specific to a patient, specific to a type of tube, or combinations of both. Examples of known label affixation techniques include those described in the following documents including EP 510615A1 to Neeley; JP 3041365A2; JP 5097133A; US Pat. 3,553,041 to Von Hofe; US Pat. 3,653,176 to Gess; US Pat. 3,843,440 to Davies; US Pat. 3,898,433 to Sallet; US Pat. 3,985,605 to Treiber et al.; US Pat. 4,589,141 to Christian et al.; US Pat. 4,626,314 to Wesley; US Pat. 4,828,716 to McEwen et al.; US Pat. 5,025,798 to Schindele; US Pat. 5,150,795 to Nakayama et al; US Pat. 5,688,361 to Itoh; and US Pat. 6,533,015 to Moore.
[0003] While these devices handle certain labeling functions, these devices are lacking flexibility for outputting (i.e., placement) information in connection with the specimen container. Such flexibility is based upon physical attributes of the container and/or responsive to practices of the healthcare professionals handling the container. Nevertheless, improvements to the above references are always desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates to an improved technique for providing information onto or into a container prior to or after the container is used as a biological specimen collection device. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a system and method are provided for providing information on at least one container for storing a biological sample including a holder configured to hold at least one biological sample container and a receiver configured to receive information relating to at least one of the container or the biological sample, as well as data relating to at least one instruction for printing the information. The system and method further include a printer configured to print the information in accordance with the at least one instruction.
[0005] In one embodiment, the printer is configured to print the information directly on the container. In another embodiment, the system and method further include an applicator configured to apply a label on the container and the printer is configured to print the information on the label. In another embodiment, the system and method include a printer to first print the information on a label and then with an applicator, apply the label on the container. In yet a further embodiment, the positioning of the printed label is influenced by the interpretation of information specific to the container.
[0006] In another embodiment, the system and method include a detector configured to detect whether the container contains the biological sample and a processor configured to determine the manner for printing the information. In this embodiment, the determination is based, at least in part, on whether the container contains the biological sample.
[0007] In another embodiment, the system and method include a processor configured to determine the manner for printing the information. In this embodiment, the instruction relates to, at least in part, whether the container contains the biological sample and the determination is based, at least in part, on whether container contains the biological sample.
[0008] In another embodiment, the system and method include a processor configured to determine information specific to a patient, determine the type of container to be labeled, position a label onto the container based on the determination of container type, and print information related to the patient on the label, wherein the printing of information related to the patient can occur before or after the positioning of the label onto the container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a labeling processing machine, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
10010] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
[0011] FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c illustrate side views of a container that is labeled by the machine illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 5 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; (0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a label roll in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 5a illustrates a perspective view of a labeling processing machine in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0014] FIG. 5b illustrates an additional perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 5a;
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram depicting a process for labeling a container in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates a diagram depicting a process for labeling a container in accordance with another aspect of the present invention; and
[0017] FIG. 8 shows a diagram depicting a process for labeling a container in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] An evacuated container (or test tube) 10 is fed into a label processing machine 20, which operates to apply, or optionally scan/read and then apply" a label onto the container in the laboratory setting. The processing machine 20 facilitates labeling of containers 10, which have been used or will be used in the process of collecting blood or specimens from a patient and eventually transferred to a diagnostic system (not shown), such as an analyzer, for subsequent analysis.
[0019] The label processing machine 20 generally comprises a hopper 22 , a holder for holding a roll of labels 29 comprising roll paper 31 with removably attached thereto a plurality of labels 30, a printer (not shown) within a machine 20 for printing (i.e., onto a label 30, a container 10, or both), optionally a scanner for scanning indicia (i.e., on the label 30, container 10, or patient ID3 health practitioner ID, etc.), and alignment elements to facilitate alignment of labels 30 applied to the container 10. A controller and/or processor are incorporated to directly or indirectly instruct portions of the label-processing machine 20 to enable appropriate printing, scanning, and label application to objects fed into the hopper 22. The containers 10 can be placed into the hopper 22 and indexed by a controller that enables selective positioning of the container 10 into an appropriate position to be labeled by the label-processing machine 22. The hopper 22 of the label processing machine 20 accepts collection containers 10 of either similar or various diameter and length product variations. Optionally as shown in machine 20a, the hopper may be designed to accept only one collection container at a time such as that shown in FIG. 5a and 5b. For instance, hopper 22a of machine 20a in FIG. 5a and 5b receives one tube at a time, wherein insertion of the container 10 into the hopper 22a by motion along for instance path 33 enables either one or both of determining information about the container or a patient, and printing information related to the container or patient on the collection container 10. As shown in the FIGS. 1 and 2, the hopper 22 may accept a plurality of containers 10 stacked such that one container 10 at a time enters into a labeling, scanning, or printing zone within the label processing machine 20.
10020] In an embodiment, the label-processing machine 20 may read or scan through the sidewall of the transparent glass or plastic container 10 and determine if the container 10 has been filled with a sample or fluid specimen, and thereby incorporate that information into a decision of whether or not to label the container 10, or optionally determine how to label the container 10. In another embodiment of the label processing machine 20, the machine 20 may read or scan the container 10 to see whether indicia is associated with the container 10 such that the machine can identify information about the container 10 that may facilitate what information is to be printed onto the container 10, either directly onto a label pre-applied to the container 10, directly onto the container 10 itself, or optionally indirectly by printing onto a label 30 that is applied to the container 10 by the label processing machine 20.
[0021] In another embodiment of the invention, the label processing machine 20 interprets for a remote source information that influences or informs the label processing machine 20 on how and to what information should be printed. For example, a remote source can be a laboratory information system that may communicate directly oτ indirectly with the label processing machine 20 to inform what should be printed onto the container 10. In some embodiments of the present invention, scanning of the container 10 to compare information about the container 10 with that from a remote source (i.e., an LIS system or user input module) is required. In other embodiments, scanning and/or comparing information is not required. (0022] In an embodiment of the invention, it is desirable to achieve alignment and positioning improvement of labels 30 onto the container 10. In one embodiment of the invention, the label is positioned purposefully in a position with respect to a label 30 already applied to a container 10. It should be noted that it may be desirable to label a container 10 already labeled such that the second label is an over-label applied by the machine 20 to the container 10. Additionally, it may be desirable to radially align a portion of the label 30 to either a radial datum on the container 10, or optionally, a readable portion of a first label (under-label). Additionally, the label processing machine 20 may comprise a scanner that reads information about the container 10 or any label 20 attached thereto wherein the scanner moves or rotates relative to the container 10, such that the container 10, scanner, or both may be fixed or rotated to achieve such relative movement.
[0023] In another embodiment of the label processing machine 20, a label 30 may be applied in a variety of manners. For example, an adhesive backed label may be used, wherein the adhesive backed label is pre-applied to a roll 29 which is placed into the machine's label applicator portion. The label applicator portion comprises rollers (not shown) that rotate the label roll 29, the container 10, or both such that individual labels are peeled from the roll 29 and purposefully applied to the container in a desired manner. The output of the machine 20, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, is illustrated by the tube and label shown in FIGS. 3a, 3b, and 3c.
[0024] FIG. 3a demonstrates a label applied to container 10 demonstrated in embodiments of the invention. FIG. 3b demonstrates two labels 30a and 30b, one (30a) of which is pre-applied to the container 10 first, and label 30b that is later applied to the container 10 by applying at least a portion of label 30b onto at least a portion of label 30a, thereby producing an overlabel subassembly 30c shown in FIG. 3c. The shape, design, size, and material choice of labels 30a and 30b are chosen such that upon correct and intended positioning of label 30b with respect to label 30a by machine 20 and 20a, portions of label 30a are possible to be seen visually as per design and positioning of label 30a indicia. In FIGS. 4 to 6 (with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3), the system and method for using the present invention is illustrated. As depicted in FIG. 6, one or multiple tubes or containers 10 (hereinafter also referred to as vessels) are loaded into the hopper 20 (step 410). The label-processing machine 20 receives information that relates to the information that is printed onto the vessels directly or indirectly and the manner for effectuating such printing (step 420). The label processing machine 20 may receive information in a variety of ways, including but not limited to: from keyed user input, by accessing a database of information remote from or integral to the label processor, from a wireless or wired telecommunications connection, from data communicated by scanning scannable information (i.e., barcode RFID, ID, or 2D barcode scanner on the vessel itself or on a patient's wristband, patient chart, or other related scannable apparatus). An algorithm accessible by label processing machine 20 incorporates the received information and prints information onto the container 10 or label 30 pre-applied to the container (step 430). Container 10 is then positioned to exit machine 20 (step 440). [0025] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the label-processing machine 20 operates similar to FIG.
6 with the exception that the machine 20 first applies label 30 onto the vessel 10 (either onto a label-less vessel or onto a vessel that already has a label applied thereto (3Oa)) (step 530), and subsequently prints specific information onto recently-applied label (30b when 30a is used as in FIGS. 3b and 3c) (step 540). Vessel 10 is then positioned to exit machine 20 (step 550). [0026] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the label-processing machine 20 operates similar to FIG.
7 with the exception that the machine 20 first prints onto label 30 (step 630), and then applies label 30 onto vessel 10 (step 640). Vessel 10 is then positioned to exit machine 20 (step 650). [0027] Aspects of the invention may be used with vessels that have already been filled with a sample specimen or may be used with vessels that have not already been filled with a sample specimen. The processor can be programmed to accommodate both of these scenarios. [0028J While the present invention is satisfied by embodiments in many different forms, there is shown in the figures and described herein in detail, various embodiments of the invention, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as exemplary of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated. Various other embodiments will be apparent to, and readily made by those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The scope of the invention will be measured by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

What Is Claimed:
1. A system for providing information on at least one container for storing a biological sample, comprising: a holder configured to hold at least one biological sample container; a receiver configured to receive: information relating to at least one of the container or the biological sample; and data relating to at least one instruction for printing the information; and a printer configured to print the information in accordance with the at least one instruction.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the printer is configured to print the information directly on the container.
3. The system of claim 1, further comprising: an applicator configured to apply a label on the container, and wherein the printer is configured to print the information on the label.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the printer is configured to print the information on the label after the applicator applies the label to the container.
5. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a detector configured to detect whether the container contains the biological sample; and a processor configured to determine the manner for printing the information, wherein the determination is based, at least in part, on whether container contains the biological sample.
6. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a processor configured to determine the manner for printing the information; and wherein the instruction relates to, at least in part, whether the container contains the biological sample; and wherein the determination is based, at least in part, on whether container contains the biological sample.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the instruction relates, at least in part, to orientation for printing the information by the printer.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the data relates, at least in part, to placement of the information by the printer.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the data relates, at least in part, to orientation of the container in the system.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the data relates, at least in part, to the placement of the container in the system.
11. A method for providing information on at least one container for storing a biological sample, comprising: holding the at least one biological sample container by an apparatus having printing capability; receiving information relating to at least one of the container or the biological sample, and data relating to at least one instruction for printing the information; and printing the information, by the apparatus, in accordance with the at least instruction.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the information is printed directly on the container.
13. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: applying a label on the container, and wherein the information is printed on the label.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the information is printed on the label after the applicator applies the label to the container.
15. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: detecting whether the container contains the biological sample; and determining the manner for printing the information, wherein the determining is based, at least in part, on whether container contains the biological sample.
16. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: determining the manner for printing the information; and wherein the instruction relates to, at least in part, whether the container contains the biological sample; and wherein the determining is based, at least in part, on whether container contains the biological sample.
17. The method of claim 11, wherein the instruction relates, at least in part, to orientation for printing'the information.
18. The method of claim 11, wherein the data relates, at least in part, to placement of the information.
19. The method of claim 11 , wherein the data relates, at least in part, to orientation of the container for the printing.
20. The method of claim 11 , wherein the data relates, at least in part, to the placement of the container for the printing.
EP07763260.2A 2006-02-08 2007-02-08 Improved label processor and method relating thereto Active EP1986927B1 (en)

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JP5275045B2 (en) 2013-08-28
CA2641861A1 (en) 2007-08-16
US9724690B2 (en) 2017-08-08
JP2009525819A (en) 2009-07-16
EP1986927A4 (en) 2011-03-30
JP2009526231A (en) 2009-07-16
CN101420902B (en) 2011-07-06
JP5412117B2 (en) 2014-02-12
EP1983891A4 (en) 2011-03-30
US8630016B2 (en) 2014-01-14
CA2641864C (en) 2016-05-10
WO2007092585A3 (en) 2008-05-08
ES2477874T3 (en) 2014-07-18
WO2007092586A3 (en) 2008-09-04
WO2007092587A3 (en) 2008-11-06
WO2007092587A2 (en) 2007-08-16
US20100279397A1 (en) 2010-11-04
JP2009526232A (en) 2009-07-16
CN104859908A (en) 2015-08-26
WO2007092586A2 (en) 2007-08-16
CN101415814A (en) 2009-04-22
CA2641861C (en) 2014-12-23
EP1983891B1 (en) 2014-04-09
CN101420902A (en) 2009-04-29
WO2007092585A2 (en) 2007-08-16
CA2642039A1 (en) 2007-08-16
ES2550539T3 (en) 2015-11-10
WO2007092585A9 (en) 2007-09-27
EP1987127A4 (en) 2011-03-30
CN101416147A (en) 2009-04-22
US20100067024A1 (en) 2010-03-18
EP1983891A2 (en) 2008-10-29
EP1986927B1 (en) 2015-07-22
CA2641864A1 (en) 2007-08-16
US20140328734A1 (en) 2014-11-06
US20090130646A1 (en) 2009-05-21
CN104859908B (en) 2018-04-06
CN105728073A (en) 2016-07-06
EP1987127A2 (en) 2008-11-05

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